On Wednesday 27th March Upper Wharfedale School were delighted to be able to invite Me & You Education in to school to deliver workshops challenging extremist behaviours.
Ivan and Irfan are often described as being like chalk and cheese and are an unlikely duo, but their shared experiences of dealing with hate from either end of the spectrum has given them invaluable knowledge in how to combat extremism, xenophobia, racism and radicalisation. The Me and You Education team came in and helped to create these difficult conversations, especially as it was so soon after the New Zealand terror attack.
Co Founder, Imam Irfan Chishti MBE, said “It was a pleasure to come to Upper Wharfedale and speak candidly about extremism that unfortunately exists in all communities. The students were very responsive and were left with a strong sense of their own belonging. “
Ex-EDL member, Ivan Humble who co-delivered today’s session said “The students really appreciated my own personal story and the impact that it had on my family life.”
Headteacher, Mr Andrew Taylor said , “The whole experience was outstanding and the students got a lot out of it. Ivan’s message of ‘I used to hate all Muslims and now I work alongside them’ was particularly powerful. It was a privilege to welcome them to the school and community.”
One student commented -‘I have learnt today that we should not attack those with different beliefs such as those in the EDL. Instead help them and understand the misinformation spread about Islam. It has been absolutely amazing’.
We were very pleased that parents and colleagues from other local schools were able to join us as well as representatives from the police, fire service and refugee council.
Thanks must go to Skipton Mechanics Institute, Skipton Rotary club and Craven District Council whose funding has made the event possible.
